By The Sea @ Luxury Suites, Batu Ferringhi

We expected more for the price. The apartment was roomy and the bed was comfortable, but there was no toaster, no pool towels, no Netflix, and just a kettle and microwave in the kitchen. The cooktop had been taken off the counter. We even had to ask for a second water glass. On the plus side, communication with the management company was excellent, and they sorted out any problems quickly. It was the first place on our whole trip around Malaysia that didn't have pool towels.

Everyone at By The Sea was friendly and helpful, from the cleaners to security. We often went to Georgetown, and people there knew exactly where we meant when we said we were staying at By The Sea. That local reputation says a lot. I picked the place from its photos without knowing much about Malaysia, and I'm glad I took the chance. The apartments were lovely and well-equipped, with air conditioning, big ceiling fans, and balconies over the huge pool and little kids' pool. There was also a pretty good gym and a playground behind the apartment block. Like the rest of the people we met in Malaysia, everyone was super helpful whenever we had questions.

The apartment was clean, comfortable, and well cared for, in a convenient spot with good facilities and a peaceful feel. It worked well for families or anyone wanting an easy, pleasant place to stay.

Getting around was easy, with convenient access to Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang. The area felt calm and pleasant while still having shops, cafés, bars, massage and spa services, and tour operators close by. Just steps from the condo, the beach area has restaurants, bars with DJs, fire shows, and a lively night market. There are also water sports, horse and trishaw rides, and parasailing within walking distance. Our host Ady was friendly, punctual, and accommodating. The condo itself was clean, well maintained, and had everything we needed. It had full air-conditioning, electrical appliances including a dryer, comfortable beds, extra mattresses and pillows, and a baby cot for our group of four adults and two kids. Everything worked. Security felt tight, with access cards for the building and lifts, a designated parking spot, and helpful guards. The pools were clean and easy to reach, the playground was a hit with the kids, and we had a sea view on one side and mountain view on the other. It really did have everything we could need. A great family stay, found on Booking.com.